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Discarding his usual improvisational humor, Trump described an America awash in blood and corruption that only he can prevent from sliding into the abyss. The speech also put an end to all speculation that Trump would somehow change his tone, making a general election pivot.

There was little new material to entice groups Trump has struggled to court like women, Latinos, African Americans, and young people. Instead, Trump focused on revving up his blue-collar base with his core message of strong borders, resentment towards elites and protestors, and an "America first" plan to protect manufacturing jobs from the forces of globalization. In doing so, he placed a bet that the voters who took him to this point can carry him all the way.

"These are the people who work hard, but no longer have a voice," Trump said. "I am your voice."